E-field Proximity Fuse for Missile Omnidirectional Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Countermeasure systems face challenges in rapidly detecting and accurately detonating countermeasure missiles to effectively neutralize incoming threats due to limitations in omnidirectional coverage and reliability, particularly with laser-based proximity fuses which have incomplete coverage and low reliability against small, fast targets.
Innovation Solution
An E-field based proximity fuse system that includes an E-field sensor to detect electrical charges, a detonation time calculator, and detonation logic to determine the optimal warhead detonation point, providing omnidirectional coverage and improved accuracy for countermeasure missiles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If laser-based proximity fuses are used for warhead detonation, then detonation accuracy for specific targets can be achieved, but omnidirectional coverage is incomplete and reliability against small, fast targets is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensing modalities (optical sensors for laser detection and E-field sensors for electrical disturbance detection) into a single proximity fuse system. This merging allows the system to benefit from both the precision of laser-based detection and the omnidirectional coverage of E-field sensing, resolving the contradiction between detonation accuracy and reliability against small, fast targets.
Solution Approach 2:
The proximity fuse system is designed to perform multiple functions: optical sensing for targeted detonation precision and E-field sensing for omnidirectional threat detection. This multi-functionality enables the system to maintain high detonation accuracy while achieving reliable coverage against various target types including small, fast-moving threats that may not be detectable by optical sensors alone.
2Measurement precision
If optical sensors are used for target detection, then detonation precision can be maintained, but coverage is limited and susceptibility to masking and jamming increases
Solution Approach 1:
The E-field sensor acts as an intermediary detection mechanism that operates independently of optical pathways. By detecting electrical disturbances in the electromagnetic environment, the system gains a secondary detection channel that is not susceptible to optical masking or jamming, thereby enhancing adaptability and coverage while maintaining detonation precision through coordinated operation with optical sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from relying solely on optical parameters (light detection) to incorporating electrical field parameters (E-field disturbances). This parameter change enables the system to detect targets through a different physical domain, expanding coverage and reducing susceptibility to countermeasures designed to mask optical detection, while maintaining precision through multi-parameter fusion.
3Adaptability or versatility
If E-field sensors are used for omnidirectional detection, then coverage is improved, but integration with existing warhead systems requires additional complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the E-field sensor as a distinct module within the proximity fuse system, separate from but coordinated with the optical sensing and detonation control subsystems. This segmentation allows the E-field detection functionality to be added without completely redesigning the existing warhead system, reducing integration complexity while achieving omnidirectional coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where E-field sensor data is processed and integrated with optical sensor information to control the detonation timing. This feedback loop allows the complex multi-sensor system to operate coherently, with the E-field detection enhancing omnidirectional coverage while the integrated control logic manages the complexity of coordinating multiple sensing modalities.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The E-field based proximity fuse system enables accurate and timely detonation of warheads, enhancing the effectiveness of countermeasure missiles by detecting electrical charges from incoming threats and ensuring complete omnidirectional coverage, thereby improving the reliability of neutralizing threats.
Implementation Method 1
E-field distortions are caused by the spatial imbalance of electric charges. The electric field distortions in one instance are the result of a charge imbalance while others result from the distortion of the natural atmospheric potential gradient.
Implementation Method 2
Examples of E-field distortions include high voltage power lines, plasma from muzzle blasts, bullets in flight, rocket exhausts, jet afterburners.
Data Source
AI summary
A proximity fuse includes an electric-field (E-field) sensor to detect electrical disturbances from an object that is external and distinct from a device carrying the proximity fuse. The E-field sensor detects or senses E-fields versus time in order to provide omnidirectional coverage of the device carrying the proximity fuse. When the device carrying the fuse is a missile having warhead, the proximity fuse is connected with detonation logic that detonates the warhead at a desired time to destroy or neutralize the object, which is typically a threat, such as another missile.